FAQ – Ask a dancer…
Q: Where did you learn to do that?
A: Middle Eastern Dance, just like any other dance form takes a great deal of training, practice and dedication. I have taken classes from several local instructors, practiced with videos, attended workshops and pulled ideas from my other more western dance training.
Q: Is Bellydance a good workout?
A: Yes! It is a great workout. Most people who start taking classes find sore muscles that they didn’t even know they owned. It is a very natural way for especially a woman’s body to move and is less impact on your joints than other forms of dance I have experienced. Just like any form of exercise though you should always check with your doctor before starting something new. You should also make sure you always tell your instructor about any physical issues you have (bad knees, back issues) before you start dancing.
Q: What are the different types of bellydance?
A: Bellydance just like other art forms varies from region to region and evolves especially fast with the modern invention of YouTube. Each genre of Middle Eastern dance has its own style, typical costume types, and props. Some of the most common forms you will see are Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish, American Cabaret, American Tribal Style and Tribal Fusion. This is by far not the end of the list of styles of dance. For more information go to Yasmina’s Many Styles of Bellydance for links to articles and other references.
Q: Is Bellydance exotic dancing?
A: NO! Although many things that are foreign to us are often called exotic, bellydance should never be confused with “exotic dance” sometimes known as stripping. It is actually quite offensive to the bellydancer to ask that she take off any clothes or participate in any activities generally included in exotic dancing.
Q: Are children allowed at bellydance performances?
A: OF COURSE! Bellydance is just another form of dance. Most bellydance costumes cover more than the average bathing suit you see at the beach in the summer. Children can actually learn quite a lot from the art form and having a great appreciation of different styles of dance.
Q: Is it ok to have children at your classes/workshops?
A: Yes and No. As long as the instructor has no problems with children attending the class then it is not an issue. For Galena herself it depends on the type of class. Children who are registered students may attend regular weekly classes, provided that they are serious about learning to dance and do not distract the other students. Children are not encouraged to attend Mommies Night Out Classes and parties because it defeats the purpose of having a night out away from the kids. Contact Galena about your specific situation to determine what would be best for all.
Q: Where do you get your costumes?
A: All over the place! Check out the links section Supplies and Goodies at the bottom of the page for some of Galena’s favorite places to shop. You can also find items new and used on ebay, local stores and if you do a search on the internet for bellydance costumes.
Q: How much do your costumes cost?
A: That depends on the costume but they range from $150 to $1500.
Q: Do you make your own costumes?
A: Galena does make some of her own costumes. There are just some things that you get a better fit when you do it yourself. The majority of the time though if it is heavily beaded that it was probably purchased. She does make her own tribal bras, skirts and veils.
If you have a question that you don’t see answered here, Galena would love to hear it.
